Programming

Programming is the stage of development where the actual game software is compiled. Programming encompasses everything related to putting the game together, from user interface implementation to scripting.

Typically, visual novel developers both indie and larger scale select an engine to develop their game software with. It is rare for a visual novel development team to create their own in-house engine from scratch.

Scene direction

Main article: Scene direction

Scene direction is the intentional manipulation and sequencing of in-game assets to serve a visual novel's narrative. It includes creatively arranging sprites, music, backgrounds, sound effects, and all other in-game assets. While scene direction is a more broad task than simple scripting or programming, it does involve writing engine-readable code.